6305.Following for Hurley with copy to Requa2 and Petroleum War Service Committee, begins. prior to receipt of your telegram 45433 Authorities advised having received telegram from Black4 indicating America was not disposed to participate in Inter-Allied Petroleum Conference, objection being principally based on preponderance of British representation which might have effect of swamping American representatives views. We are informed this objection can be overcome by diminishing British or increasing American representation. Mr. Walter Long personally very much concerned over American attitude.5 On clear understanding Conference has no executive power and its deliberations confined to terms of reference as per Statement File Reference 131 we again recommend American participation and that we be appointed official delegates while on this mission. Stevens favors American participation see cable 6267 Shipmission 100.6 Meantime pending decision by America further meetings of conference suspended. Signed Foley and Thomas. 6305.

Footnote 3: On 3 April Hurley instructed Foley and Thomas that “Inter-Allied Petroleum Conference under consideration here and you will be advise later as to conclusion. Meanwhile if you attend do so unofficially.” DNA, RG 45, Entry 517B.